West of Jerusalem, the most devastating fires in Israel in several years broke out on Sunday. Thousands of people had to be evacuated. On Tuesday, the fire department announced that the situation was under control.
Wildfires broke out in the hills west of Jerusalem on Sunday. At least 10,000 residents from the suburbs had to flee. Firefighting aircraft were deployed with support from the air force. Rescue workers treated several people for smoke inhalation. By Monday midday, the Red Star of David reported that the fires were largely under control; most of the evacuees were able to return to their homes.
Contrary to expectations, there was no all-clear on Monday evening. Winds, combined with the drought, had further fanned the flames. On Tuesday, Israeli fire chief Dedi Simchi declared that the situation was now under control. However, he also warned of further winds later in the day.
According to Omri Bone of the Jewish National Fund, only a small fire was active on Monday. However, firefighters arrived too late, allowing it to spread and ignite further fires. Meanwhile, emergency crews were prepared to evacuate Hadassah Hospital in the Ein Kerem neighborhood of Jerusalem, the largest hospital in the country. However, the flames did not reach the hospital, so this step was unnecessary.
Fire engines from Ben Gurion Airport and Palestinian aid
According to the Jerusalem Post, hundreds of firefighters were deployed overnight into Tuesday. Eight water-bombing aircraft joined the effort on Tuesday morning. The Palestinian fire service also assisted with firefighters and fire engines. Additionally, fire trucks from Ben Gurion Airport were called in. These can carry 12,000 liters of water and have a long range. Standard fire engines have a tank capacity of less than 3,000 liters.
Given the situation on Tuesday, Israel was able to withdraw its requests for assistance from other countries. The Foreign Ministry had addressed these requests to France, Italy, Greece, Cyprus, and other countries, "including those in the region." Foreign Ministry Director Alon Ushpitz stated: "Bushfires are a growing regional threat, one that we will combat and defeat together."
Criticism of the deployment
Meanwhile, residents are accusing the authorities of reacting too late. They claim the first flames appeared near the village of Ramat Rasiel at 2:30 p.m. local time on Sunday afternoon. However, the fire department didn't arrive until three hours later. Unnamed firefighters also criticized the incident command, saying they misjudged the situation given the winds.
The extent of the damage caused by the fires is not yet fully quantifiable. Firefighters report that 20 square kilometers have been consumed by the flames. Experts already anticipate that it will take decades for the affected forest areas to recover.
The investigation into the cause of the fires is still ongoing. According to the news site "Times of Israel," the fire department assumes the fires were caused by humans. It remains unclear whether this was due to arson or negligence.
